The National Youth Theatre did one very simple but incredible thing for me: it made me realise I had choices.

I'm extremely self-critical. Although I try not to be ridiculous about it, wearing horsehair shirts and all that. It's a private exercise I don't necessarily share with other people.

Usually I can go for three or four weeks and then I start to bake cakes or make jewellery and I think, 'hang on a minute, I'm obviously bored rigid. I need to get back out there.'

I was one of those kids who found it difficult to eat anything that looked like an animal.

I grew up in a military family, so I liked being in an atmosphere where there was almost that feeling.

I grew up in a family where my father always told me, defend your ideas when you think your ideas are good, and struggle to get your story written. And I've always fought for that.

The audience should go out and see 'Shark Night 3D' because you can bring your whole family.

My family always encouraged my drawing ability. Kids in school who teased me about my reading would get out of their seats and stand behind my desk as I worked and go, 'Wow, you can really draw.' Later, I earned a degree in Fine Art and got a Ph.D. in Art History.